Life
The Year of the Fire Horse: What your Chinese Zodiac has in store for 2026


Published by Sophie van Soest
23 Feb 2026
We're nearly a week in to the Lunar New Year and with this year being the year of the fire horse, there's plenty going on that you should be aware of.
And if you're already into your horoscope, buckle up because the Year of the Horse is galloping in. According to the Lam Museum of Anthropology, the horse is seventh in the 12 Chinese zodiac cycle and is all about confidence, responsibility and being fit and intelligent (mentally and physically).
A horse year is usually one of movement, breakthroughs, and chasing what you want.
But this year isn't bringing the same for everyone... so, what does 2026 hold for you, based on your Chinese zodiac sign?
(Disclaimer: this is for fun! As always, take it with a grain of salt - your year is ultimately what you make of it.)
What your Chinese Zodiac means for 2026’s Year of the Fire Horse:
Horse (1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026)
It’s your year! Career energy is rising, especially through teamwork and networking. Money is set to stay steady with potential surprises to come - it's giving boss energy.
Your relationships may need extra communication, though - we all need something to work on...
Be cautious physically - you lot might be animated, active and energetic, but rushing could lead to accidents.
Lucky colours: Brown, yellow, purple | Unlucky: Blue, white Numbers: 2, 3, 7 | Avoid: 1, 5, 6
Snake (1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025)
Intelligent, wise snakes will find that steady growth will define this year. The gradual progress follows through into your career, finance AND investments - so get into it.
Romance isn’t overflowing for singles, so boosting confidence helps. Treat yourself!
Working on balance will help you slither smoothly through 2026 - otherwise, overdoing it will catch up on ya.
Lucky colours: Black, red, yellow | Unlucky: Brown, gold, white Numbers: 2, 8, 9 | Avoid: 1, 6, 7
Dragon (1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024)
This year isn’t so straightforward for the dragons. Opportunities are there, but not all of them are good ones, so choose VERY carefully.
Your income should remain stable, though nothing to write home about. Speaking of, family tensions, especially with your elders, may need careful control. Burnout is your real enemy this year, so please pace yourself.
Lucky colours: Gold, silver, grey | Unlucky: Blue, green Numbers: 1, 6, 7 | Avoid: 3, 8
Rabbit (1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023)
Your work is cruising along nicely for the most part, but you might be thrown a curveball later in the year - so don’t be afraid to hit up someone you trust for advice. If you’re gonna invest, earlier in the year is your best bet.
Love-wise, don’t let tiny messes turn into full-blown dramas. You may tend to be quiet, elegant, kind and responsible, but communication is key!
Lucky colours: Red, pink, purple | Unlucky: Dark brown, dark yellow, white Numbers: 3, 4, 6 | Avoid: 1, 7, 8
Tiger (1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022)
You’re thriving tigers! Momentum is building in your career, promotions are possible, so let your decision-making skills shine. This year, your income is likely to stay strong, and opportunities could fall right into your lap. Woop woop!
Romance is exciting! The singles among you are attracting, and the couples are ready to get deeper. Overall energy levels are high for your 2026, just don’t hit the gas too quick ‘cause burn out it REAL!
Lucky colours: Orange, grey, blue | Unlucky: Brown Numbers: 1, 3, 4 | Avoid: 6, 7, 8
Ox (1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021)
If you’re an Ox, chances are you’re some of the most diligent, dependable, strong, and determined peeps out there. Work could feel slow or frustrating, so mindset matters. Tip: Avoid office drama and pace yourself.
Financially, this is a smart year to budget - saving beats splurging any day.
Singles should look for shared values, while couples need honest conversations - sorry! Minor health issues, especially stress-related, could pop up, so make sure you're getting some proper rest.
Lucky colours: White, yellow, green | Unlucky: Blue Numbers: 1, 4, 9 | Avoid: 5, 6
Rat (1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020)
You are known for being quick-witted, resourceful, versatile and kind. This year may feel a bit tense, especially at work, where clashes or misunderstandings could arise. Just remember, patience is EVERYTHING!
Your money may stay steady, but don’t expect any huge wins. Stress levels may spike, so protecting your mental health is key!
If your single this year looks promising to meet someone, but (hint, hint) you’ll need to make the first move.
Lucky colours: Blue, green, gold | Unlucky: Yellow, Brown Numbers: 2, 3, 7 | Avoid: 5, 9
Pig (1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019)
For you pigs, career growth seems to be steady this year and you might find you're getting some helpful support behind the scenes. Proof might come in the form of an income increase, but any investments are said to require caution.
Avoid surface-level charm, in your love life. Don’t let people take advantage of your generosity. Stress could impact health, so balance is everything.
Lucky colours: Yellow, grey, brown | Unlucky: Red, blue, green Numbers: 2, 5, 8 | Avoid: 1, 7
Dog (1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018)
Career flows smoothly with possible promotions in your 2026 path. Tip: side projects could boost income - just manage expenses wisely.
Relationships feel supportive and loving - call it puppy love, lol! But while love is looking on the up, make sure to prioritise self-care to avoid burnout.
Lucky colours: Yellow, green, purple | Unlucky: Blue, white, gold Numbers: 3, 4, 9 | Avoid: 1, 6, 7
Rooster (1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017)
Competition pushes you, observant, hardworking, courageous chookies, to grow. Career changes could boost recognition and income.
Love feels steady and empowering, but keeping your health habits consistent will help you maintain momentum in 2026.
Lucky colours: Gold, brown, yellow | Unlucky: Red Numbers: 5, 7, 8 | Avoid: 1, 3, 9
Monkey (1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016)
You sharp, smart, curious things have a year of opportunity! Stay sharp and avoid workplace jealousy traps at all costs. Income will stay stable with bonus potential looking good...
Romance looks promising for 2026, especially socially - so get out there and show us what you've got!
Lucky colours: White, gold, blue | Unlucky: Red, pink Numbers: 4, 7, 9 | Avoid: 2, 7
Goat (1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015)
Your calm, gentle, sympathetic tendencies will help make promotions or business growth possible - go you good thing!
Singles may meet someone special while travelling - so book in that annual leave and buy a plane ticket ASAP.
Lucky colours: Green, red, purple | Unlucky: Blue, black Numbers: 2, 7, 8 | Avoid: 4, 9
Now you’ve all got some insight, focus and things to avoid to have a great Year of the Fire Horse!

Published by Sophie van Soest
23 Feb 2026